It is estimated that 6-8 million dogs and cats enter shelters
every year. Out of those, 3-4 million are euthanized. Generally 70-71% of these animals are cats. The number of cats that
are destroyed is higher than the number of dogs because more cats come into shelters without any identifying tags.
These cats are often healthy, beautiful, wonderfully tempered cats, but are put down for no better reasons than lack of
space and adopters. Often in small, overcrowded shelters, older cats are sacrificed to make room for the more adoptable kittens.
These mature felines have waited in vain and may be destroyed as a result of kitten-mania.
With so much to offer,
adult cats are equally deserved of a wonderful and happy life; and let us not forget that the cats of today were yesterday's
little babies.
Adopting a cat from a shelter rather than other avenues means you
are helping and not contributing to the pet overpopulation problem. The cost of adopting a pet at an animal shelter is usually much less expensive than buying one from a breeder or
pet store. Breeders or pet stores sell pets with the incentive
to make money, whereas shelters are focused on the animal's best interests. Often cats adopted from shelters have already been spayed or neutered. Most of them have also been wormed and vaccinated.
Shelter cats are often used to being around other animals.
Many people express that adopting a cat from a shelter is extremely spiritually rewarding - knowing that they are
saving a life (some shelters euthanize animals for population control) and giving them a new home. Adopting a mature cat is less maintenance. You do not have
to go through the demanding and time-consuming stage of raising a kitten. Adult cats are independent and do not need anyone home with them during the day. Purrrfect for busy or employed people.
Adult cats are often litter-box trained (although initial
mistakes are possible in the beginning until the cat is used to its new surroundings) and are more likely to have some basic
training. Adopting a mature cat leaves little room for unpleasant
surprises. You will have an accurate idea of the cat's temperament, full-grown size, coat, etc. Adult cats are more likely to have already been spayed, neutered and fully vaccinated.
Adult cats understand the concept of approval and reward
and are eager to please their owners. Many adult cats came
from previous homes and are usually well versed at being a good pet and a good patient should it need medical attention. Adult cats get into less mischief, and you do not need to "kitten-proof"
your home. Older cats often handle the transition into a
new home better than kittens. Older cats are less rambunctious
than kittens and may be a better choice for small children and seniors. Senior cats are a good choice for older people who might pre-decease a younger cat or kitten. Older cats often have trouble finding new homes, as people are more likely to flock
toward kittens.